Making sure your toothbrush is working effectively is essential for emergency dentistry prevention, one expert has said.

Sebastiana Springmann, a dentist in Virginia, told the Detroit News that battered brushes with frayed bristles will not effectively remove plaque and are therefore not doing what they should to maintain healthy teeth and gums.

She advised replacing them at least every three or four months – or more if you have been ill recently – and offered some tips on how to keep them at their best.

Firstly, rinse your brush thoroughly after every use to wash away debris, then place it in an upright container to air it out.

In addition, Ms Springmann warned against sharing brushes to prevent germs spreading from mouth to mouth.

Last month, Dr Ogo Eze told the Guardian that electric toothbrushes could help children and those with manual dexterity problems in the battle against emergency dentistry.

Anyone who does not already follow a diligent emergency dentistry prevention regime could find that spring is the perfect time to start.

This is according to mouthwash manufacturer Eludril and Elgydium, which told Dentistry.co.uk that people should spring clean their oral hygiene in the same way they would their houses after the winter months.

To begin with, the firm's experts recommended always brushing for two minutes twice a day, even if you are feeling tired. They suggested getting ready for bed early if you are in for the whole evening, as this will leave you more time for brushing.

Flossing was also recommended, as was buying a new toothbrush.

Finally, Eludril and Elgydium said it is vital to pick up the phone and make a dental appointment if you haven't had a check-up in ages.

Last month, Dr Ogo Eze told the Guardian that it is important to brush regularly but not too vigorously, as this can scrub away the gums.

Some people may benefit from using electric toothbrushes when it comes to emergency dentistry prevention.

This is the advice of Dr Ogo Eze, who told the Guardian that the devices could help those with manual dexterity problems, or children who struggle with their coordination during brushing.

However, he added: "I wouldn't say electric toothbrushes are automatically better," pointing out that technique is the most important issue.

Dr Eze said one thing that is vital is the use of floss once a day, preferably at night.

The expert recommended flossing first and then brushing, because this will open slight gaps between the teeth to get a brush and toothpaste into, as well as allowing food particles and bacteria to be swept out.

In October 2010, researchers from the University of North Carolina found the Philips Sonicare power toothbrush performed significantly better in tests than a manual brush, Dentistry.co.uk reported.